ABSTRACT
China's Marriage Law was revised in 2001 to reflect social changes, particularly increased incomes and material possessions. As this following selection shows, new laws detailed both responsibilities and penalties associated with divorce and also the new phenomenon of prenuptial agreements. Husband and wife shall have equal status in the family. Both husband and wife shall have the duty to practice family planning. Divorce shall be granted if husband and wife both desire it. Both parties shall apply to the marriage registration office for divorce. The marriage registration office, after clearly establishing that divorce is desired by both parties and that appropriate arrangements have been made for the care of any children and the disposition of property, shall issue the divorce certificates. If bigamy, domestic violence to or maltreatment and desertion of family member constitute a crime, the criminal responsibility of the wrongdoer shall be investigated according to law.
